Marine Engineering

Engineering Course

Marine Engineering is a dynamic and vital discipline that underpins the operation and maintenance of ships, submarines, and other marine vessels. It involves the design, development, installation, and maintenance of the machinery and systems that power and control these vessels. A qualification in Marine Engineering opens up a world of exciting opportunities both onshore and offshore, in industries ranging from commercial shipping to naval defense and offshore oil & gas.

Our Marine Engineering qualifications have been designed in collaboration with colleges, higher education institutions, and sector skills councils. They offer a pathway for individuals to progress to university degrees and cover levels 3 to 7.

Our Marine Engineering programs are structured to provide students with a solid foundation in engineering principles, practical skills, and industry-specific knowledge to excel in their careers. Each level is designed to progressively build expertise and prepare learners for increasingly responsible roles in the marine industry

These qualifications provide the flexibility for learners to choose from a variety of optional units at each level. This allows them to specialize in specific areas while also gaining the essential core knowledge necessary for all managers.

Course Objective

Develop a solid understanding of core marine engineering principles:
The program aims to provide students with a comprehensive foundation in mathematics, physics, chemistry, and engineering sciences as they apply to marine environments. This foundation enables students to analyze and solve complex problems related to ship systems, propulsion, and marine operations.
Gain proficiency in marine system design, diagnostics, and analysis:
Students will learn how to design, install, operate, and maintain mechanical and electrical systems found on vessels. They will also develop the ability to use engineering analysis tools and simulation software to assess system performance and identify faults.
Acquire knowledge of marine machinery, propulsion, and ship construction:
The curriculum covers key subjects such as marine diesel engines, ship construction, fluid mechanics, thermofluids, and hydromechanics. Students will gain an in-depth understanding of how ships function and how marine engineering supports their safe and efficient operation.
Develop practical skills through hands-on training and lab work:
Practical training is a core component of the program, including workshops, engine room simulations, machine shop exercises, and lab experiments. These experiences help students build the technical skills necessary for working with complex shipboard systems.
Foster teamwork and effective communication in a maritime context:
Marine engineering often involves working in multidisciplinary teams on board ships or within maritime facilities. Students will develop collaboration skills and learn to communicate technical ideas clearly using standard marine terminology.
Enhance problem-solving, analytical thinking, and leadership abilities:
Through technical coursework and project-based learning, students will develop strong analytical and leadership skills. They will be trained to assess engineering challenges critically and implement practical, innovative, and cost-effective solutions.
Understand safety, environmental, and regulatory aspects of the marine industry:
The program places strong emphasis on marine safety, pollution prevention, and international regulations (such as SOLAS, MARPOL, and STCW). Students will be equipped to work responsibly and ethically within the marine environment.
Prepare for a successful global career in marine and offshore engineering:
This program prepares students for a wide range of careers both at sea and onshore. Graduates will be equipped with the technical expertise and maritime knowledge required by shipping companies, naval operations, offshore industries, ports, and maritime consultancies.

Career Opportunities

Upon successful completion of the Marine Engineering program, graduates are presented with a wide range of career opportunities across the global maritime, offshore, and engineering sectors. The program equips students with the technical knowledge and practical skills needed to excel in diverse roles within marine operations, ship management, and marine system design and maintenance.

Potential career paths include marine engineer, shipboard engineer, marine systems designer, offshore engineer, marine maintenance engineer, naval architecture assistant, marine surveyor, technical superintendent, marine control systems specialist, project engineer/manager, and more.

Graduates can explore employment opportunities in shipping companies, offshore oil and gas platforms, naval and defense organizations, shipbuilding and repair yards, marine equipment manufacturers, port authorities, marine consultancies, and environmental and regulatory bodies.

Additionally, graduates may choose to pursue advanced studies at the postgraduate level in fields such as naval architecture, ocean engineering, marine electronics, or maritime business and law. The qualification also provides a strong foundation for those interested in entrepreneurship within the maritime industry or seeking international employment opportunities in a highly specialized and globally connected field.

Course Details

Level-5
Level-6

Level 5-Higher National Diploma in Marine Engineering

Course Overview:

The Level 5-Higher National Diploma (HND) in Marine Engineering provides an advanced education in marine machinery, systems, and operations. This program prepares students for supervisory and technical leadership roles, covering advanced topics such as ship stability, propulsion, accident investigation, and engineering materials. Learners also engage in programming and complex system analysis, gaining the versatility needed in today’s maritime engineering landscape.

Equivalences:

This diploma is equivalent to the second year of a university degree in the UK and is highly regarded for employment or university top-up programs.

Course Contents:

General Physiology with Alcohol and Drug Prevention
Advanced Ship Construction and Ship Stability
Machine Shop
Heat Balance
Principles of Accident Investigations
Marine Transmission and Propulsion System
Marine Engineering – 1
Engineering Materials
Fluid Mechanics – 1
Computer Programming for Engineers

Assignment Criteria:

Assessment is through coursework and evaluation interviews per unit.

Entry Requirements:

Completion of Level 4-Diploma in Marine Engineering or equivalent
Demonstrated competency in previous marine-related studies

Course Duration:

1 to 1.5 years depending on learning pace and institutional schedule

Note: However the course duration may be increased to meet additional learning needs if required.

Level 6-Graduate Diploma in Marine Engineering

Course Overview:

The Level 6-Graduate Diploma in Marine Engineering is a capstone program intended to refine and extend technical, analytical, and managerial skills. It focuses on high-level marine engineering systems, electrical and control systems, naval architecture, and thermofluids. Learners are encouraged to engage in independent engineering projects, preparing them for senior professional roles or postgraduate study.